Movie spotlight
Canaries Sometimes Sing
Geoffrey and his wife Anne are trapped in a stifling marriage, which neither feels able to leave. When Geoffrey's boyhood friend, Ernest, and his new wife, Elma, come for a long visit, it's soon apparent that their marriage is equally unhappy. As Ernest and Anne strike up a supposedly secret affair, Geoffrey and Elma do everything they can to encourage their spouses' infidelity, whilst also pretending to be blissfully unaware of it.
Insights
Plot Summary
A gambler finds himself entangled with a wealthy socialite whose husband is involved in shady dealings. He attempts to navigate this dangerous world while trying to protect the woman he has grown to care for, leading to a series of dramatic confrontations and moral compromises.
Critical Reception
This early talkie received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its dramatic intensity and the performances, while others found the plot to be somewhat contrived and melodramatic. It is generally considered a minor film in the careers of its cast and director.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its dramatic performances, particularly from the lead actors.
Criticized for a melodramatic and predictable plot.
Seen as a typical, albeit somewhat formulaic, drama of the early sound era.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1930 film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was one of the earlier attempts to incorporate sound into motion pictures, a significant technological shift in Hollywood during that period.
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